To the Editor of The New York Times:
“Pain on the Reservation” (Business Day, July 13), highlighting the problems facing Indian country and the difficulty of solving them, correctly notes that many tribes cannot operate profitable casinos because they are not close to major population centers, deepening our pain as Congress forces austerity.
Many tribes are turning to the Internet, with online financial services emerging as a profitable alternative to gambling and a critical source of money to meet their shortfalls. These companies, which operate as an arm of the tribe, are supporting the essential services that many who live off the reservation take for granted.
Our member tribes are changing this narrative by taking back control of our future.
BARRY BRANDON
Executive Director, Native American
Financial Services Association
Washington, July 15, 2013
